Easy Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

When you’re juggling work, family, and a million other responsibilities, finding the time to whip up a hearty meal can feel impossible. Enter the Easy Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup. This delicious recipe is not only comforting but also quick to prepare, making it the perfect choice for those busy weeknights when you crave something warm and satisfying without spending all your time in the kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Easy Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you come home after a long day. The last thing you want to do is labor over a complicated recipe. You want something that’s easy to make, packed with flavors, and, most importantly, ready in under an hour. That’s where this soup shines! It’s creamy, hearty, and filled with tender chicken and vibrant veggies, creating a warm hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s customizable, allowing you to tweak it based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

Not only is this soup a breeze to prepare, but it also caters to various dietary needs. Whether you prefer a lower-carb option, are looking for a vegetarian twist, or need to avoid dairy, this recipe can adapt to fit your lifestyle. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table happy, and it tastes even better as leftovers. Let’s dive into some useful tips and nutritional insights before we jump into the recipe overview!

Practical Tips / Cooking Tips

• Prep Ahead: Dice your vegetables and shred the chicken in advance to save time. You can even cook your chicken beforehand and store it in the fridge.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For an even quicker option, grab a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken from the store. Just shred it and add it to the pot!
• Spice it Up: Adjust the spices according to your taste. If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• Thicken it Up: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans or add a little cornstarch mixed with water to the broth.
• Garnish Wisely: Don’t skip the toppings! Fresh cilantro, avocado slices, lime wedges, and crispy tortilla strips elevate this soup’s flavors.

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

The Easy Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only satisfying but also packs a punch when it comes to nutrition. Here’s why you should consider adding it to your meal rotation:

• Protein-Packed: With chicken as the main ingredient, this soup provides a healthy dose of protein necessary for muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in Veggies: Loaded with bell peppers, corn, and beans, it ensures you’re getting essential vitamins and minerals in a flavorful way.
• High in Fiber: The beans and veggies will keep you fuller for longer and support digestive health.
• Comforting Yet Light: The creamy broth offers comfort without being overly heavy, making it suitable for various dietary requirements.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients (with substitution options in table format)

Ingredient	Substitution Options
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded	Rotisserie chicken, tofu (for vegetarian)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed	Pinto beans, kidney beans
1 cup corn, frozen or canned	Peas; omit for lower-carb
1 medium onion, diced	Shallots, green onions
2 cloves garlic, minced	Garlic powder (1/2 tsp)
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies	Regular diced tomatoes, homemade salsa
4 cups chicken broth	Vegetable broth, bone broth
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)	Coconut milk, cashew cream (for dairy-free)
1 tsp chili powder	Paprika, cayenne pepper (for more heat)

Instructions (step-by-step with cooking tips)

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by shredding your cooked chicken and chopping your vegetables. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Veggies: Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, and black beans. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer for about 15 minutes.
5. Incorporate the Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken and let it heat through for about 5-7 minutes. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, this is the point to add it in.
6. Make it Creamy: Pour in the heavy cream and stir until incorporated. Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer, and season with chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with your favorite toppings. Fresh cilantro, avocado slices, crispy tortilla strips, and a squeeze of lime juice are highly recommended!

FAQ

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much over time.

Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?

Yes! To ensure the soup is gluten-free, simply verify that your chicken broth and any canned tomatoes do not contain gluten ingredients. Additionally, you can use gluten-free tortilla chips for garnish.

How can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or additional beans and use vegetable broth. To make it vegan, swap heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.

What should I serve with chicken tortilla soup?

This soup is fantastic on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a side of cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion with light call to action

There you have it! Your Easy Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe is ready to bring warmth to your table in a delightful and nutritious way. Whether you make it for the family or meal prep for the week ahead, this dish is sure to become a staple. Remember, it’s all about making mealtime easy and enjoyable! We’d love to see your creations, so don’t forget to share your soup photos and tips with us in the comments below. Happy cooking!

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